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Help for panic attacks

Our experienced Psychologists have helped many people with panic attacks over the years. There are many strategies that can be learned that can help sufferers to feel much better.
Panic attacks are sudden and intense episodes of overwhelming fear or anxiety that can be triggered by something, or come out of the blue. They are characterized by a range of physical and psychological symptoms, which often peak within minutes and usually last for a short duration. Common symptoms of a panic attack may include:
  1. Rapid heartbeat (palpitations)
  2. Shortness of breath or feeling like you’re choking
  3. Sweating
  4. Trembling or shaking
  5. Chest pain or discomfort
  6. Nausea or abdominal distress
  7. Dizziness or lightheadedness
  8. Numbness or tingling sensations
  9. Hot or cold flashes
  10. Fear of losing control or going crazy
  11. Fear of dying
  12. A sense of detachment from reality (depersonalization) or feeling detached from one’s own body (derealization)

Panic attacks can feel awful. Without proper treatment, panic attacks can be very distressing and disruptive to daily life, often leading to ‘fear of the fear’ which can keep the cycle of panic attacks going.

Clinical psychologists can help in several ways:

  1. Assessment, formulation of what’s occuring, and psychoeducation: Psychologists first conduct a comprehensive assessment to understand an individual’s symptoms, history, and any underlying causes or contributing factors. From here, your Psychologist will share with you the factors that have likely contributed to the development of panic symptoms; what may be triggering the issues; what factors are keeping the cycle of panic attacks going; and importantly what types of strategies are recommended in order to manage the difficulties.
  2. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that is highly effective in treating panic attacks. CBT includes learning of coping strategies, such as relaxation exercises and breathing techniques, calming self-talk, and support around reducing behavioural avoidance.
  3. Medication Management: In some cases, psychologists work in conjunction with GPs and Psychiatrists to manage medication as part of a treatment plan. Medications like antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs may be prescribed to help alleviate the symptoms of panic attacks.
  4. Relapse Prevention: Psychologists help individuals develop strategies to prevent the recurrence of panic attacks and manage anxiety in the long term.

It’s important to note that the specific treatment approach will vary depending on the individual’s needs and the severity of their panic attacks. A clinical psychologist tailors the treatment plan to address the unique challenges and goals of each individual, with the ultimate aim of reducing the frequency and intensity of panic attacks and improving their overall quality of life.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you would like some help. To enquire about an appointment at Moving Forward Clinical Psychologists, please complete our Online Contact Form, or call us on 1300 133 013. Our experienced Clinical Psychologists are located in Terrigal (10 minutes from Erina) on the beautiful NSW Central Coast. We are also available Australia wide, via Telehealth.